Combining RAAS and calcium channel blockade: ACCOMPLISH in perspective

Blood Press. 2008;17(5-6):260-9. doi: 10.1080/08037050802565171.

Abstract

The Avoiding Cardiovascular events through COMbination therapy in Patients LIving with Systolic Hypertension (ACCOMPLISH) trial was the first trial to compare the cardiovascular outcomes of initial fixed-dose combination angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)/calcium channel blocker (CCB) and ACEI/diuretic therapy in patients with hypertension and high risk of cardiovascular events. The initial combination therapy was effective in this population, with ACEI/CCB therapy providing the greatest benefit (reduction in risk of cardiovascular events). Whether or not the findings of ACCOMPLISH can be applied to other renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitor/CCB combinations, such as angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)/CCB combinations, has yet to be investigated. The present report reviews the results of ACCOMPLISH, data from trials comparing ARB and ACEI therapies, and findings from studies of ARB/CCB combination therapy that support the use and further study of combination therapy with RAAS inhibitors and CCBs.

MeSH terms

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Diuretics
  • Drug Therapy, Combination*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / drug therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Diuretics